ALCS 2016: 5 reasons Blue Jays will win

October 6, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (2) safe at third after hitting a three run RBI triple in the third inning against the Texas Rangers during game one of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 9, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (10) reacts after hitting a two-run home run against the Texas Rangers during game three of the 2016 ALDS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Scoring early and often could decide games

The Blue Jays did most of their damage against the Rangers in the early innings. Overall, the scored 17 of their 22 runs in the first five innings. That trend of coming out swinging against the starting pitcher will have to continue in the ALCS.

With Andrew Miller waiting in the bullpen, the Blue Jays will have to capitalize on the weakened Cleveland rotation. Against the Red Sox, Terry Francona was content to go to his ace reliever after getting five innings from Trevor Bauer and Josh Tomlin. He will likely do the same thing in this series.

The Blue Jays have the ability to hang a crooked number early in the game, especially when the top of their order is locked in. With Devon Travis, Carerra, and Donaldson setting the table for Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion, and Troy Tulowitzki, look for the Jays to make life difficult for the Indians starters. Every single hitter in the Toronto lineup can change the game with a single swing of the bat, and the Indians may no longer have the arms to hold them down for an entire series.

If the Indians are unable to get the ball to their bullpen with a lead, this series points to a Blue Jays victory.

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